If you know me, or have followed me online a bit, you know that I love Northern Saskatchewan.  As soon as the fields turn to trees and the shores become rocky, I feel at peace.  I also love the people of The North, along with the warmth and hospitality they bring with them wherever they go.

On my very first visit to La Ronge almost 2 years ago I met Cody Cooper.  He is the Pastor at the Lutheran church in town and though he's originally from Alberta, you could never tell.  He and his wife are two of the most welcoming people you will meet and their 4 young kids became my new best friends almost immediately. 

In addition to leading and growing with his community, Cody does essential work throughout the province writing and speaking about suicide prevention.  It's a very difficult subject, but something that is so needed.  

When Cody reached out for help creating portraits for his website and branding, I was eager to get on board.  I love teaming up with clients, brainstorming ideas, generating concepts, and working together to capture those "it" photos.  

With Cody, we wanted him to be seen as relatable and approachable, but also show that he is able to speak with expertise.  Thoroughly understanding the seriousness of the topics he addresses, Cody uses storytelling and humour when appropriate, as a way of building connection and gaining trust with his audience.  We wanted to communicate this dynamic presenting style within the portraits.  Finally, as he hasn't created his website yet, we wanted a range of photographs that are versatile and could easily be incorporated into the design of a site. 

Cody came by my home studio earlier this week and we quickly left the white backdrop behind and took a more intimate approach.  Have a look at the photographs we produced below.